Gut Wreckers: Daily Habits Harming Your Microbiome

15. Chlorinated Drinking Water

While essential for killing harmful pathogens in municipal water supplies, chlorine doesn't discriminate – it can also impact the beneficial bacteria residing in your gut. While the levels in tap water are generally considered safe, consistent, long-term exposure could subtly alter the gut microbiome composition for sensitive individuals. Using a quality water filter that removes chlorine is a simple step to potentially mitigate this low-level, chronic exposure and better support your gut flora.

16. Food Emulsifiers (e.g., Polysorbate 80, Carrageenan)

Commonly found in processed foods like ice cream, salad dressings, and baked goods to improve texture and prevent separation, emulsifiers can directly harm gut health. Studies suggest they can erode the protective mucus layer lining the gut, increase intestinal permeability ("leaky gut"), and promote inflammation by altering the microbiome composition, potentially favoring bacteria associated with inflammatory bowel conditions. Reading labels and minimizing processed foods helps avoid these hidden disruptors.